Datacolor Spyder 5 in practice test: calibrate the monitor with Express, Pro and Elite

With the Datacolor Spyder 5 you can calibrate your monitor so that the colors on the display look exactly the same as in the print. In this practical tip, we will show you what Datacolor Spyder 5 Express, Pro and Elite can do.

Datacolor Spyder 5 in practice test: what do you need it for?

• For professional image editing, it is essential to calibrate the monitor regularly. Otherwise, after hours of editing, you will notice that the colors in the print look a little different than on the PC.
• The Datacolor Spyder 5 is available in three different versions, which differ in their range of functions: The Datacolor Spyder 5 Express costs around 100 euros, for the pro version 150 euros and for the elite version almost 200 euros.

Datacolor Spyder 5: This is how the monitor is calibrated

• Before calibration, you should set the monitor settings as neutral as possible, i.e. contrast back, brightness down and RGB color value to 50 percent. The room should be as dark as possible for the calibration. Sunlight should not shine on the monitor, you should also avoid artificial light as much as possible.
• Only the Datacolor Spyder 5 is included in the scope of delivery. You must download the software from the manufacturer's website. After installation, all you have to do is type in the serial number from the packaging in the software.
• The software is very simple. After selecting the monitor, the calibration is started. To do this, the Datacolor Spyder 5 is placed on the marked position on the monitor and the monitor is tilted slightly backwards for a better grip.
• The colors on the screen now flicker for five minutes. The monitor is then calibrated. With the button "switch" you can see the difference between before and after.
• The next calibration is due in a month. This is necessary because the color representation always changes a little due to wear.
• Conclusion: According to the manufacturer, the Datacoler Spyder 5 is 55 percent more precise than its predecessor. In our test, the calibration removed a clear red cast from the MacBook Pro that was previously not noticed.

Differences between Datacolor Spyder 5 Express, Pro and Elite

• The Datacolor Spyder 5 Express is the basic version. The express version cannot include the brightness when measuring. If you use a laptop in constantly changing locations for image processing, the express version is not sufficient.
• The monthly recalibration also takes longer with the inexpensive express version. It is also not possible to fine-tune the settings. You always have to be satisfied with the result.
• The Pro and Elite versions therefore offer some advantages for professionals. You only need the Elite version if you also want to calibrate projectors.

In the next article we will show you how to correctly set up your monitor without additional hardware.